The Old Paratrooper Podcast

Chris Binch
  • 4.0 (4)
  • Mental Health
  • Updated Weekly

A no frills podcast, just an ex Paratrooper, mercenary and firefighter chatting to a wide variety and diverse range of guests. From actors to sports personalities to military guests and veterans covering a multitude of topics from there careers ,life in general to how people cope with various forms of mental health. Sometimes funny , sometimes emotional but hopefully entertaining and something people can relate to. https://youtube.com/@theoldparatrooperpodcast?si=lehGKUW0MlvaiRl6

  1. 1d ago

    From Royal Marine to Australian SAS: The Grit, Blood & Brotherhood of Rob Maylor

    From the streets of Northern Ireland to the battlefields of Iraq and Afghanistan, Rob Maylor has lived a life few could imagine. A former Royal Marine who went on to serve in the elite Australian SAS, Rob became one of Australia's most accomplished combat marksmen, earning gallantry medals during some of the fiercest fighting of the modern era. In this raw and unfiltered conversation, Rob shares the realities of life inside one of the world's most secretive special forces units. He reflects on combat in East Timor, Iraq and Afghanistan, the relentless pursuit of mastery as a sniper, and the devastating Black Hawk helicopter crash off Fiji that claimed the lives of two close mates—a tragedy he narrowly survived. From protecting presidents and military leaders to operating on the front lines, this is a story of sacrifice, resilience, elite soldiering and the unbreakable bond of mateship that defines special forces. If you're interested in the true realities of elite military service, sniping, combat, leadership and the brotherhood forged in war, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Subscribe for more conversations with military veterans, special forces operators and remarkable people who have lived extraordinary lives. Interested in supporting the podcast ??? The check out the merch range on the link below. Get hold of Robs book on the link below. https://www.amazon.co.uk/Sniper-Elite-Special-Forces-Marksman/dp/1250010462 https://theoldpara.co.uk/?srsltid=AfmBOooekmN5nuMemozCBSlXndH8wu7y8z-c_pbTYvpezFBuFwRsjuie Ex British military? struggling with your hearing ? Click the link below to see if you’re eligible for compensation. https://veterans-for-veterans.co.uk/affiliates/chris-binch #veteran #britisharmy #viral #veteran #britisharmy #viral #royalmarinecommando #motivation #parachuteregiment #interview #military #algorithm #youtubeshorts #facebook #instagram #mentalhealthawareness#sas #BritishArm #AustralianArmy #Veterans #MilitaryTransition #Leadership #Resilience #TheOldParatrooperPodcast #LifeAfterService #VeteranSupport

  2. 3d ago

    The Split-Second Decision That Saved Lives… Years Later, He Was Arrested for War Crimes

    In one of the most intense moments of his military career, Gary recounts the split-second decision to open fire after an armed man raised an AK-47 towards British soldiers in Basra. What happened next confirmed just how dangerous the situation really was.Gary also reflects on the shocking twist that emerged years later: He would go on to be arrested for war crimes, adding an extraordinary postscript to an already remarkable encounter.A gripping first-hand account of combat, split-second decision-making, and the realities of modern warfare.Interested in supporting the podcast ??? The check out the merch range on the link below.https://theoldpara.co.uk/?srsltid=AfmBOooekmN5nuMemozCBSlXndH8wu7y8z-c_pbTYvpezFBuFwRsjuieEx British military? struggling with your hearing ? Click the link below to see if you’re eligible for compensation.https://veterans-for-veterans.co.uk/affiliates/chris-binch#BritishArmy #MilitaryStories #Basra #IraqWar #Veterans #Combat #TheOldParatrooperPodcast #WarStories #History #Podcast #military #veteran #britisharmy #viral #veteran #britisharmy #viral #royalmarinecommando #motivation #parachuteregiment #interview #military #algorithm #youtubeshorts #facebook #instagram #mentalhealthawareness#sas #BritishArm #AustralianArmy #Veterans #MilitaryTransition #Leadership #Resilience #TheOldParatrooperPodcast #LifeAfterService #VeteranSupport

  3. Jul 19

    Served Two Nations... Now He's Fighting for Veterans.

    Why Leadership at Sandhurst Doesn’t Guarantee Success – The Real Traits of a Good OfficerAfter serving in both the British and Australian Armies, Gareth Williams has dedicated his life to a new mission—helping veterans find purpose beyond military service.As the co-founder of Veterans Can, Garrath is challenging outdated perceptions, changing the narrative around life after the forces, and proving that military experience is a foundation for success, not a limitation.In this powerful conversation, we explore his remarkable military journey across two nations, the lessons learned through service, the realities of transition to civilian life, and why he believes veterans have so much more to offer the world.This is an episode about resilience, leadership, purpose, and building a community where veterans don't just survive—they thrive.Don't forget to like, subscribe, and join The Old Paratrooper Podcast community.00:00 — Intro and Garrath’s background01:13 — Growing up around military service02:28 — Choosing the Duke of Wellington’s Regiment03:46 — Sandhurst and officer training05:49 — Leading as a young platoon commander08:16 — Kosovo and early operational experience10:53 — Transferring from the British Army to the Australian Army12:07 — First impressions in Australia13:36 — Differences between the British and Australian Armies17:33 — Brisbane, company command, and career progression18:23 — Afghanistan in Uruzgan province20:19 — Why service mattered, despite the politics23:51 — Judging veterans from the outside26:05 — Leaving the Australian Army and returning to the UK28:50 — Networking for the next chapter31:54 — Job Oppoppo and employability through connections35:33 — Negativity in the veteran community39:55 — What Veterans Can is all about44:27 — Membership, donations, and the Tower of London event46:28 — Fundraising events and the Veterans Can Festival48:44 — Veteran Games UK51:37 — Public perception of veterans53:18 — Why life after service can be powerful54:22 — Grants, transparency, and impact58:23 — Global veteran community and purpose59:13 — Final thoughts on service, purpose, and transition61:21 — Closing remarksInterested in supporting the podcast ??? The check out the merch range on the link below. https://theoldpara.co.uk/?srsltid=AfmBOooekmN5nuMemozCBSlXndH8wu7y8z-c_pbTYvpezFBuFwRsjuie Ex British military? struggling with your hearing ? Click the link below to see if you’re eligible for compensation. https://veterans-for-veterans.co.uk/affiliates/chris-binch #veteran #britisharmy #viral #veteran #britisharmy #viral #royalmarinecommando #motivation #parachuteregiment #interview #military #algorithm #youtubeshorts #facebook #instagram #mentalhealthawareness#VeteransCan #BritishArmy #AustralianArmy #Veterans #MilitaryTransition #Leadership #Resilience #TheOldParatrooperPodcast #LifeAfterService #VeteranSupport

  4. Jul 15

    The Ex-Soldier Who Became a Professional Stuntman

    A former Royal Marines Commando and Falklands war veteran. Along with his combat service medals, Neil was presented with Her Majesty's Lord Lieutenant award for "17 Years outstanding military service, as a member of the Forces in the Service of Her Majesty The Queen and the Country".He was a Free-Fall Parachute instructor and team leader, Tandem-Master, Ski Instructor and represented his country in extreme sports. Culminating into one of his proudest achievements of becoming an adaptive Ski Instructor. Teaching injured service personnel how to ski, using various methods as part of their physical rehabilitation with the Battle Back team. While still serving as a Sergeant in the Parachute Regiment reserves, he then went on to become a very successful Film/TV stunt man. Guest Neil Finnegan is a seasoned stunt performer at the British Stunt Register, known for his work in blockbuster films like The Dark Knight Rises, Saving Private Ryan, and countless TV series. His experience encompasses everything from military parachuting to high-octane car crashes, making him one of the most credible voices in the industry.Interested in supporting the podcast ??? The check out the merch range on the link below.https://theoldpara.co.uk/?srsltid=AfmBOooekmN5nuMemozCBSlXndH8wu7y8z-c_pbTYvpezFBuFwRsjuieEx British military? struggling with your hearing ? Click the link below to see if you’re eligible for compensation.https://veterans-for-veterans.co.uk/affiliates/chris-binch#veteran #britisharmy #viral #veteran #britisharmy #viral #royalmarinecommando #motivation #parachuteregiment #interview #military #algorithm #youtubeshorts #facebook #instagram #mentalhealthawareness

  5. Jul 15

    I fired six shots and killed all six of them.

    On a Friday afternoon, soldier Gary Roberts walked out of his barracks in Edinburgh – and with that, the Army. By Monday morning, he was in Baghdad, Iraq. Issued with body armour, weapons, and as much ammunition as he could carry, he was ready to begin work as a privately-hired contractor.Baghdad, Iraq – ‘The dead guy hangs limply from the door of the bus, face down, legs on the steps, head on the floor. He paid with his life; blood – across his body, up the side of the bus, a puddle on the floor around his head.’Basra, Iraq – ‘Suddenly, in a fluid motion, he stands. His rifle is aimed at one of the soldiers in my call sign. I bring my rifle up, aim…I shoot once, twice, in quick succession.’“A very real and raw, hard-hitting insight into the harsh brutality of war and all that follows, by a man who has been at the sharp end many times” – Jordan Wylie, star of Channel 4’s Hunted and best-selling author of Citadel.Seven Point Six Two is more than just a story of war, or private contractors working in the most difficult of circumstances in the most dangerous countries on the planet. The book contains real, never-before-seen personal photographs of conflict and its aftermath. It’s a story of action, danger, and false allegations faced on a daily basis by those on the front lines.Get yourself a copy belowhttps://share.google/3Nny34Ux3tPRvHqymInterested in supporting the podcast ??? The check out the merch range on the link below.https://theoldpara.co.uk/?srsltid=AfmBOooekmN5nuMemozCBSlXndH8wu7y8z-c_pbTYvpezFBuFwRsjuieEx British military? struggling with your hearing ? Click the link below to see if you’re eligible for compensation.https://veterans-for-veterans.co.uk/affiliates/chris-binch#veteran #britisharmy #viral #veteran #britisharmy #viral #lightinfantry #motivation #parachuteregiment #interview #military #algorithm #youtubeshorts #facebook #instagram #mentalhealthawareness

  6. Jul 12

    Royal Marines Sniper to World Record Adventurer | Aldo Kane

    From serving as a Royal Marines Commando Sniper to becoming one of the world's most respected expedition leaders, Aldo Kane has built an extraordinary career operating in some of the planet's most dangerous environments. A world record-breaking adventurer, bestselling author, television presenter, and extreme-environment specialist, Aldo has worked in over 100 countries, leading high-risk expeditions and providing safety expertise for some of the biggest productions on television.In this episode of The Old Paratrooper Podcast, Aldo shares incredible stories from his military career, life beyond the Royal Marines, world-record expeditions, surviving extreme environments, and the mindset required to perform under relentless pressure. We also explore resilience, fear, leadership, and what it truly takes to keep moving forward when the odds are stacked against you.This is an honest, inspiring conversation packed with lessons from a man who has spent his life thriving where most people would never dare to go.(00:00) - Welcome and introduction to Aldo Kane’s inspiring story(02:18) - Growing up in Kilwinning and early influences(03:45) - The scout camp encounter that sparked military ambitions(05:09) - The role of scouting and cadets in developing skills for life and military service(06:30) - How early leadership and outdoor experiences foster confidence and resilience(09:00) - The importance of role models outside the family for boys’ development(11:23) - Motivations and reasons behind Aldo’s decision to leave the Marines(13:42) - Transition to adventure television and film industries(16:00) - Challenges of demanding expeditions and the mental toughness required(20:09) - Handling injuries during extreme expeditions and mental resilience(24:28) - Perspectives on children joining the military at young ages and societal perceptions(26:25) - The role of the military in shaping positive values and community contributions(28:38) - The importance of character in leadership and personal growth(31:33) - The changing landscape of military service and Aldo’s insights on leaving after 10 years(36:48) - Reflection on decision-making, purpose, and embracing uncertainty(44:04) - The Congo volcano expedition and seizing opportunities(55:14) - Building capacity, resilience, and the significance of recovery and self-care(58:47) - Practical steps for mental health management and social connection(66:03) - Living in the present versus dwelling on past mistakes or worrying about the future(67:34) - Touch on the Fire and Ice expedition injury, mental shift during hardship(73:34) - The importance of challenging oneself out of comfort zones(75:54) - Aldo shares upcoming projects, leadership events, and ultra challengesInterested in supporting the podcast ??? The check out the merch range on the link below.https://theoldpara.co.uk/?srsltid=AfmBOooekmN5nuMemozCBSlXndH8wu7y8z-c_pbTYvpezFBuFwRsjuieEx British military? struggling with your hearing ? Click the link below to see if you’re eligible for compensation.https://veterans-for-veterans.co.uk/affiliates/chris-binch#veteran #britisharmy #viral #veteran #britisharmy #viral #royalmarinecommando #motivation #parachuteregiment #interview #military #algorithm #youtubeshorts #facebook #instagram #mentalhealthawareness

  7. Jul 5

    PART1: From the Falklands to the Film Set | The Extraordinary Life of a Para, Marine & Stuntman

    A former Royal Marines Commando and Falklands war veteran. Along with his combat service medals, Neil was presented with Her Majesty's Lord Lieutenant award for "17 Years outstanding military service, as a member of the Forces in the Service of Her Majesty The Queen and the Country".He was a Free-Fall Parachute instructor and team leader, Tandem-Master, Ski Instructor and represented his country in extreme sports. Culminating into one of his proudest achievements of becoming an adaptive Ski Instructor. Teaching injured service personnel how to ski, using various methods as part of their physical rehabilitation with the Battle Back team. While still serving as a Sergeant in the Parachute Regiment reserves, he then went on to become a very successful Film/TV stunt man. Having worked on numerous film blockbusters and then winning a Taurus World Stunt Award in 2013, for his mid-air plane to plane high-jack jump on The Dark Knight Rises. Neil has now become a very well respected Stunt Co-ordinator, Action Unit Director, Producer and also a published author, under the name (Neil Thomas). When not working on a Film/TV project, or pursuing his passion as an amateur racing driver, he lives between his homes in the UK and the Spanish Canary Islands, where he continues to writeInterested in supporting the podcast ??? The check out the merch range on the link below.https://theoldpara.co.uk/?srsltid=AfmBOooekmN5nuMemozCBSlXndH8wu7y8z-c_pbTYvpezFBuFwRsjuieEx British military? struggling with your hearing ? Click the link below to see if you’re eligible for compensation.https://veterans-for-veterans.co.uk/affiliates/chris-binch#veteran #britisharmy #viral #veteran #britisharmy #viral #royalmarinecommando #motivation #parachuteregiment #interview #military #algorithm #youtubeshorts #facebook #instagram #mentalhealthawareness

  8. Jul 4

    Remembering Those Who Never Returned

    The Somme. A name that means so much to so many, yet until you stand here, it’s impossible to truly understand its scale.This was my first visit, and no amount of reading, documentaries or photographs could prepare me for what it feels like to walk these battlefields. Today they’re peaceful fields, lined with crops, trees and quiet country roads. But just over a century ago, this landscape witnessed one of the bloodiest battles in British military history.As I walked through places like Thiepval, Beaumont-Hamel and the countless cemeteries scattered across the Somme, it became clear that every step was on ground where thousands of young men fought, suffered and, for many, never returned home.It’s impossible not to think about who they were. Sons, brothers, fathers and friends. Ordinary people asked to do extraordinary things. Many were little older than teenagers, carrying hopes, fears and dreams that would never be realised.What struck me most wasn’t just the scale of the loss, but the silence. The silence that now covers ground once filled with artillery, gunfire and unimaginable chaos. That silence gives you time to reflect—not just on the sacrifice made here, but on the cost of war itself.Standing amongst the headstones, you quickly realise that every name represents a family whose lives were changed forever. Behind every grave is a story. Behind every memorial is someone who was loved and never forgotten.As someone who has served myself, visiting the Somme carried an even deeper meaning. It reminded me that while equipment, tactics and uniforms change, the courage, camaraderie and sacrifice of those who wear the uniform never really do.This journey wasn’t just about looking back through history. It was about remembering the people behind it. Ensuring that, 110 years later, their sacrifice is still recognised and their stories continue to be told.The Somme leaves you with more questions than answers. But one thing is certain: we owe these men our remembrance.Lest we forget. #britisharmy #motivation #britishsoldier #veteran #viral #parachuteregiment #thesomme #mentalhealthawareness

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A no frills podcast, just an ex Paratrooper, mercenary and firefighter chatting to a wide variety and diverse range of guests. From actors to sports personalities to military guests and veterans covering a multitude of topics from there careers ,life in general to how people cope with various forms of mental health. Sometimes funny , sometimes emotional but hopefully entertaining and something people can relate to. https://youtube.com/@theoldparatrooperpodcast?si=lehGKUW0MlvaiRl6

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